Pittsfield’s state representative is calling on the state transportation department to lower proposed rate changes associated with an upcoming switch to all-electronic tolling on the Massachusetts Turnpike.

In advance of the changeover in late October to all-electronic tolling on the Massachusetts Turnpike, officials are distributing free transponders that motorists will need to avoid paying higher rates to travel on the highway.

Drivers passing through the Massachusetts turnpike's first six interchanges are once again paying tolls.

The tolls for passenger car drivers resumed early this morning after having been eliminated in 1996 by former Gov. William Weld. They cover Interchange 1 connecting to West Stockbridge through Interchange 6 connecting to Springfield and Interstate 291.

The tolls are the same as they were in 1996. The cost for cars getting on at exit 6 and getting off at exit 1 is $1.75.

Tolls on the Massachusetts Turnpike's first six interchanges are set to return this week.

The tolls for passenger car drivers will resume Tuesday after having been eliminated in 1996 by former Gov. William Weld. They will cover Interchange 1 connecting to West Stockbridge through Interchange 6 connecting to Springfield and Interstate 291.

The tolls will be the same as in 1996. The cost for cars getting on at exit 6 and getting off at exit 1 would be $1.75.

Tolls will soon return for motorists traveling on the western end of the Massachusetts Turnpike.

The first of two informational hearings is scheduled for tonight on implementation of tolls between Exit 1 in West Stockbridge and Exit 6, which leads to Interstate 291 and Springfield. The meeting will be held at Lee High School.